Your First Prenatal Visit: What to Expect and Essential Questions to Ask

Your First Prenatal Visit: What to Expect and Essential Questions to Ask

“Key Takeaway: Your initial antenatal check-up (ANC) is a monumental milestone. Being prepared for clinical history discussions, lab work, gestational dating, and bringing a written list of questions ensures you build a confident, collaborative partnership with your gynaecologist.

What to Expect During the Initial Appointment

• Comprehensive Health History Review: Detailed discussion regarding your personal medical background, prior pregnancies, and family health history.

• Due Date Calculation: Calculating your estimated due date (EDD) based on your Last Menstrual Period (LMP).

• Physical Baseline Vitals: Baseline measurement of your blood pressure and maternal weight.

• Routine Blood and Urine Laboratory Work: Screening for maternal blood type, Rh factor, hemoglobin levels, and asymptomatic urinary tract infections.

• Initial Dating Ultrasound Scan: Assessing early gestational age, single or multiple gestations, and observing the baby's cardiac activity.

6 Essential Questions to Ask Your Gynaecologist

1. Which prenatal vitamins and folic acid dosage do you recommend for me?

1. Are my current prescription and over-the-counter medications safe to continue?

1. What forms of physical activity, walking, or exercise are safe for my health profile?

1. What is the recommended healthy weight gain target for my pre-pregnancy BMI?

1. Which specific red-flag symptoms require immediate emergency contact?

1. When should my subsequent antenatal check-up be scheduled?